Generation X

By Reuben  

Charles County has set forth several important measures to provide an enhanced quality of life for our younger citizens.  We will continue our efforts to provide services for our older residents; nevertheless, it is imperative that we provide an array of housing options as well as an expanded base of amenities that will be attractive to our younger professional & service industry work force.  

Housing

The county recently passed key legislation in housing that will make home ownership a reality for an expanded base of young residents.  The creation of a Housing Authority in 2007 will provide the administrative apparatus needed to effectuate housing policy. 

The passing of shared septic and shared well legislation is not a cure all; however, it will provide an additional tool for affordable housing in our rural areas.  The amendment to the county’s maximum square footage to 1,250 in our development district is voluntary and will only pay dividends if a substantial number of developers opt to use this option.  Individually, these measures would have little impact of housing policy.  Collectively, along with a fully workable Moderately Priced Dwelling Unit (MPDU) program, we will be closer to our goal of making housing affordable for all of our residents. 

Waldorf Urban Design

The planning of a livable, user friendly Center City Waldorf will expand the overall Charles County commercial district and provide an exciting living experience for our younger adult residents who tend to be more attracted to an urban living environment.  The plan itself is consistent with the county’s overall goal of directing growth to our development district, which includes Waldorf to the east and Bryans Road and the incorporated town of Indian Head to the west. 

Youth Policy

Charles County must develop a comprehensive youth policy to prepare for its continually burgeoning youth population.  An expanded focus on youth job preparedness and youth centers are an effective response to this ever expanding component of the county’s demographics.

Filed in: Insights from Reuben

Connecting the Community Through Education

By Reuben  

The downturn in the economy has made funding for priority funding areas an ongoing challenge. We will continue to make funding above the Maintenance of Effort our goal. Any dip below this level would be the result of continuing reductions in revenue. As long as the resources exist, we pledge to continue making education funding a top priority.

By continuing to prioritize education funding, the children of Charles County will have access to a world-class education in a safe environment that will allow them to successfully compete in the 21st century. As our vibrant county continues to become more diverse, our public schools will continue to be one of the highest performing school systems in Maryland. Charles County has already distinguished itself as the top performing majority/minority school system in the state.

Charles County Public Schools are leading because of the intense focus on improving K-12 science and mathematics education in all schools. The leveraging of technology will deliver a relevant challenging curriculum to students in all our schools. The county has shown a willingness to provide training, support, and resources for education professionals that will equip them to deliver the highest quality education for all students. Beginning at the top, our school system insists on accountability for performance and results at all levels–administration, teachers, students and parents.

Filed in: Insights from Reuben